POLICE in Nelson have launched a new appeal to track down yobs who put two large gas canisters on a bonfire in Brierfield.

Firefighters were called to the Sackville Street blaze on November 5 after canisters were found among the flames.

Around 20 houses had to be evacuated amid fears the canisters could have caused serious injury and damage to properties if they had exploded.

Community beat manager PC Andy Prescott said: "Putting gas canisters of any type on to a fire is a very dangerous thing to do.

"Whoever is responsible has acted most irresponsibly and could have caused serious injury and significant damage.

"If anyone knows who is responsible for this mindless act then they need to come forward with names. This type of dangerous behaviour cannot be tolerated. Those names can be given anonymously to our new confidential ansaphone number which is 01282 472635.

"You can ring any time day or night and you don't need to leave your name. You won't even have to answer questions or speak to an officer."

Officers say that tackling the blaze was hampered further because of youths aiming fireworks at both the police and firefighters.

PC Prescott said: "To be targeted with fireworks in this way when you are simply trying to do your job and protect the local community is disappointing to say the least.

"However, we know that it is only a small minority of people who are causing the problems and together with help from the more law-abiding members of the community, we hope to catch them and ensure they are dealt with appropriately by the courts."